Binaural audio is some of the most immersive and realistic audio experiences available when listened to through headphones.
That all sounds great, but it can be difficult to truly get the most out of your binaural recordings. Here I am going to go through a few helpful tips and tricks I’ve picked up through the years, so you can maximise the quality of your binaural audio!
Optimise Your Recording Settings For Binaural AudioThe settings you use for your binaural recording are important when it comes to getting the best quality audio.
You should use the best settings possible you can for your binaural recording, for YouTube we recommend the following minimum settings:
When it comes to your recording settings, you should also turn off any limiters that you may have on your recorder. This is because it could hinder your binaural recording, unless you are recording in a noisy area that could cause your audio to clip. Do not use auto levels, this will stop "pumping" effects and spoiling your recordings. Auto levels, also known as automatic gain control (AGC), is a feature in audio recording equipment that automatically adjusts the gain or volume of an audio signal to maintain a consistent level. |
While auto levels can be useful for ensuring consistent recording levels, they can also have drawbacks. For example, in some cases, they can introduce unwanted noise or artefacts into the recording. Additionally, the automatic adjustment of gain can sometimes result in unnatural or inconsistent sound quality, particularly in complex or dynamic recordings.
The pumping effect refers to a change in the volume level of a sound that is caused by a dynamic range compression or limiting effect. When the volume of the sound reaches a certain level, the compressor or limiter kicks in and reduces the volume of the sound, resulting in a "pumping" or fluctuating effect.
Optimise Your Recording Settings For
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Export: AAC, 320 kbps (or higher), 48 kHz, Stereo.
When importing audio into our video editing software, we use the following settings:
Import: 24bit 96kHz WAV (or higher)
For HD sound, please use 24bit (or 32bit float) 192khz WAV (non-video, downloadable files on soundcloud.com for example).
We recommend that your authoring software is using the best audio quality settings it can use for exporting, using WAV, or just use the highest quality audio settings that your recorder used for the recording.
For the very best binaural audio experience, try not to use equalizers or normalising.
Equalizers can potentially interfere with, or enhance in some situations, the accuracy of binaural audio because they alter the frequency response of the sound signal. Binaural audio is designed to simulate the way sound waves interact with the head, ears, and body to create the perception of spatial sound. This simulation relies on the accurate reproduction of the original sound signal, including its frequency content, in order to create a convincing 3D audio experience.
When an equalizer is used, it can alter the frequency response of the sound signal in ways that may not be compatible with the HRTF/ERTF of the listener. This can result in a loss of spatial accuracy. Additionally, changes to the frequency response of the sound signal can affect the naturalness and realism of the binaural audio, the Primo EM272 capsules have a natural frequency response and should not need adjustment, however, other microphones may actually benefit with slight adjustment in the higher frequencies, experimentation is worthwhile if you are using microphones other than the EM272.
On playback on computers, please switch off any enhancement settings.
Our Microphones
SR3D dummy head microphone MKIII
These are built to order, and the lead times are up to 7 days
If you are having difficulty in placing an order, please contact us at awi3@live.com right away
Want to truly enhance the binaural 3D effect? Then the SR3D Dummy Head MKIII is for you!
This binaural dummy head microphone is not just perfect for ASMR, field recording, Foley, and headphone testing, but it's a great addition to the collection for any audio enthusiast.
The stylish and minimalist design of our dummy head microphone means it will fit in with any setup, without sacrificing audio quality, Its advanced technology guarantees crystal clear sound quality.
Whether this is your go-to ASMR dummy head microphone, or your recording podcasts, music. This microphone will give you professional-level results every time you use it.
Our binaural dummy head microphones are made from a hand-modified polystyrene head with a few added extras to create a premium dummy head microphone.
Complete with a 3D printed base, layered with green felt and 1/4 inch metal standard tripod mount.
The SR3D binaural dummy head microphone comes with multiple different connection options so it can be seamlessly integrated into your setup.
Phantom Powered option - XLR: MKIII
Professional Primo EM272 ultra-low noise capsules
XLR version requires a recorder or mixer to provide 48v phantom power.
Standard 1/4" tripod thread
Weight@550g
Colour: WHITE
USB Option: MKIII
Professional Primo EM272 ultra-low noise capsules
The SR3D Dummy head USB microphone for PC and MAC
Standard 1/4" tripod thread
Weight@550g
Colour: WHITE
96kHz 24Bit
Comes with 5M USB cable
USB Compatibility:
Windows® XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11
Mac OS X® 10.6 and above
iPhone® 6 and above with lightning adapter (works with iPhone 15)
Android
Debian Linux
USB Audio Specifications: 96kHz 24bit
If you have an idea for a microphone or a modification, why not get in touch, maybe we can work with you and build you a bespoke microphone ideal for your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a dummy head microphone?
A dummy head microphone is exactly what it sounds like, a pair of microphones that sit inside a structure that replicates a human head. By using two microphones placed within the ears of the dummy head, the microphone captures sound from different directions and distances, just like our ears do.
SR3D binaural microphone
If you are having difficulty in placing an order please contact us at awi3@live.com right away
The SR3D® Binaural microphone. Its unique design allows it to pick up a wide range of sounds, from whispering, soft speaking and ambient audio, and produce a realistic and immersive listening experience. Plus, with its compact size and lightweight design, it's easy to take with you wherever you go, and now you can also use the optional USB mixer with your PC/MAC (and iPhone or Android with optional adapters).
To capture the best binaural audio, you need a high-quality binaural device that can pick up subtle sounds and accurately reproduce them for your audience.
Our binaural capturing devices are specifically designed to capture binaural audio in fine detail. It features two high-quality Primo EM272 microphones that are positioned to mimic the way human ears hear, creating a realistic and immersive 3D audio experience. This means that your ASMR and binaural 3D audio and video recordings will sound more realistic and will be more effective at external audio perception and triggering ASMR responses in your listeners.
It's also a fantastic product to capture precious moments! Capture your precious moments of loved ones and you can playback the experience of them almost being there with you by the sense of presence! Young one's playing in the next room, a baby giggling across the room, a parent laughing, capture your moments to recall the experience by playback on your phone or computer, now, or many years in the future.
Whether you're an experienced ASMR creator, field recordist, or just getting started, our SR3D binaural capturing device is the perfect tool to help you capture binaural audio.
Some of our clients include Samsung Electronics (South Korea), SNK studios (London), The Royal college of art (London), and many ASMR artists and audio recordists from around the globe.
Professional Lavalier Microphones - 3.5mm
Lavalier Microphones
Lavalier microphones are a valuable addition to anyone's audio kit! Not just to be used for ASMR but lot's of different types of audio recordings.
Give your YouTube channel/podcast a new sound that will have your audience focusing on you rather than the room noise and echo/straining to hear your voice, we'd recommend our very low noise lavalier microphone housed in an elegant black metal body, they use the same Primo EM272 capsules as in our SR3D binaural Pro microphones.
Convenience and mobility - Our lavalier microphones come with 1.5 metre wire meaning you won't be restricted by holding a microphone in your hands. This freedom makes them the perfect choice for performers, presenters and musicians who need to move around! The 3.5mm jack stereo microphones come individually with a short stereo adapter for stereo connection to your recorder/camera, both capsules are selected for a well-balanced signal in your stereo recorder.
Flexibility - Our lavalier microphones are available with a 3.5mm jack,connector.
This type of versatility makes lavalier microphones a popular choice for lot's of different environments including live performances, broadcast journalism, podcasting, video production, public speaking events, and more.
High Quality - Our microphones use high-quality jack plugs and a professional Mogami cable. High quality audio recording has never been easier.
Lavalier Microphone Specifications:
- Directional Pattern: Omni directional.
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 80 dB at 1 kHz.
- Self Noise: 14 dB-A.
- Clipping SPL: 120 dB SPL at 1 kHz.
- Sensitivity: -28 dB +/- 3dB at 1 kHz (0 dB = 1V/Pa)
They can also be used with our USB adapters to get audio into your phone (iPhone and Android)
They have high quality Neutrik connectors with gold-plated contacts and Primo EM272 capsules, and use high quality Mogami 2697 cable.
Available in Mono or Stereo selected pair.
If you purchase two, they will be a selected pair.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a lavalier microphone?
A lavalier microphone, also known as a lapel microphone or lav mic, is a small microphone that is typically clipped to the clothing of a person speaking or performing. It is commonly used in television broadcasting, presentations, interviews, stage performances, and other situations where hands-free operation or discreet placement is required.
Are lavalier mics omnidirectional?
Yes, most lavalier microphones are omnidirectional. This means that the microphone picks up sound equally from all directions around it. This makes lavalier microphones especially good at capturing voice recordings.
Do lavalier microphones require phantom power?
Some types of lavalier microphone do require phantom power, such as XLR versions. Most lavalier microphones like our ersion here, are usually powered by built-in power source (plugin Power), but there are some exceptions to the rule.
Can you use a lavalier mic for gaming?
Yes, you can use a lavalier mic for gaming. They are great for capturing speech, and can easily be attached to your clothing which makes them a good choice for gaming.
Weatherproof outdoor garden microphone - Binaural 3D
These are built to order, and the lead times are up to 7 days
3D Binaural audio, experience sounds externally when using headphones, the SR3D weatherproof dummy head garden microphone has ears so hears everything like we do.
Please use headphones for playback, for the 3D effect.
Weatherproof XLR comes with:
Dummy Head with silicone ears for 3D binaural audio
Professional Primo EM272 ultra low noise capsules
Standard 1/4" tripod thread
Weight@600g
X2 ear stand-offs for wind sock (for extra wind protection)
Washable/removable wind sock
20M CAT6 Shielded cable
XLR to RJ45 adapter box for connecting to your recorder or mixer
If you purchase the optional USB mixer, please see the following:
Compatibility:
Windows® XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11
Mac OS X® 10.6 and above
Debian Linux
Below, External power required for mixer
Raspberry Pi
iPhone® 6 and above with lightning adapter/iPhone 15 with USB-C adapter
Android with an OTG adapter
Audio Specifications of the USB Mixer
192KHz/24-bit Sample Rate
Please note:
International buyers are responsible for any tax, duties and customs fees.
Instructions on how to set up your audio streaming SR3D USB microphone go to:
https://www.sr3d.co.uk/darkice-setup.html
A live binaural audio stream should be streaming on this page from a Raspberry Pi and SR3D USB weatherproof garden microphone.
A free audio server for streaming live nature audio with the SR3D USB weatherproof microphone (or your own microphone) is available from:
https://locusonus.org/wiki/index.php?page=Locustream.en
"Locus Sonus Stream Project offers a worldwide network of "open mikes" that permanently stream local soundscapes to a dedicated server. The resulting live audio is used in a large variety of artistic projects. The microphones are installed and maintained by volunteer participants."
Nature link:
https://www.naturetec-live.de/
Thomas (@naturetec) in Germany is using a few of our USB garden microphones - see the live streams on YouTube below, and check out his nature website above (in German)
If you have an idea for a microphone, or a modification, why not get in touch, maybe we can work with you and build you a bespoke microphone ideal for your requirements.
ASMR - Field recording - DIY Binaural microphone Kit
Introducing the ultimate tool for capturing immersive 3D audio: our DIY binaural microphone complete kit!
With this kit, you can build your own high-quality binaural microphone and start recording crystal-clear, spatially-accurate binaural 3D sound.
Binaural microphones are designed to mimic the way our ears naturally pick up sound, allowing you to capture audio that sounds just like you're really there. This makes them perfect for creating virtual reality content, recording live music, ASMR or simply enhancing the audio on your videos.
Our kit includes everything you need to assemble your own binaural microphone, including detailed video instructions and all the components. No prior experience is required - just follow the step-by-step guide, and you'll be up and running in no time.
So why wait? Start exploring the world of 3D audio today with our DIY binaural microphone kit!
2 SR3D ears
1 Tube
2 Washers
1 Nut - 14mm
1 3/8 - 1/4 Stud - 18mm
2 lavalier microphones
1 microphone splitter
1 Pair of fluffies
1 Handle
1 Grommet for the microphone wires on the tube
1 Camera support bar
1 - 3/8 to 1/4 adapter (silver)
1 Phone holder for support bar
1 GoPro tripod adapter - fits GoPro Hero 2 3 3+ 4 5 6 7 8 9
1 Hot shoe adapter for mounting on top of DSLR's
Now with Primo EM272 capsules for top quality recordings
- Primo EM272 capsules
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 80 dB at 1 kHz.
- Self Noise: 14 dB-A.
- Clipping SPL: 120 dB SPL at 1 kHz.
- Sensitivity: -28 dB +/- 3dB at 1 kHz (0 dB = 1V/Pa)
Please see the DIY Kit assembly video below.
Special offer:
Now with a Zoom H1n option with 16gb memory card and batteries for only an extra £49.99! (Limited stock)
Or, you can use your iPhone to record video and audio from the microphone with the Axagon USB with the iPhone USB adapter listed on our website.
The Axagon USB device also works with Android - Tested working with a Samsung Galaxy S20 FE
If you have an idea for a microphone, or a modification, why not get in touch, maybe we can work with you and build you a bespoke microphone ideal for your requirements.
SR3D binaural - B-Stock clearance
The SR3D® Binaural MICROPHONES
Priced to clear!
These may have paint blemishes and or other defects, sound is not effected.
Perfect for 3D audio, ASMR, Musicians, Field recordists, VR and EVP.
XLR MODEL
Professional Primo EM272 ultra low noise capsules
Very low noise circuits
Unique SR3D Silicone ears
Quality XLR sockets
Standard 1/4" tripod thread
Colour: WHITE
48V phantom power required
BASIC MODEL
Uses a standard 1/4" tripod socket.
Uses ultra low noise Primo EM272 capsules
Tube 65mm X 65mm X 150mm (190mm including ears)
Weighs @ 450g
Comes with 1M audio cable.
These are not intended for use with mobile/cellular phones, please see our USB version or adapters for use with phones.
(However, you can use them with a mobile phone with the USB mixer we have if you use the correct adapter to fit your phone type).
for use with Zoom H5/H6 - Tascam DR-40, Sound devices MixPre 3/6, Mixers etc, requires phantom power (48v/24v)
Please note:
International buyers are responsible for any tax, duties and customs fees.
Some of our clients include Samsung Electronics (South Korea), SNK studios (London), The Royal college of art (London), and many ASMR artists and audio recordists from around the globe.
SR3D® Cubes
These are built to order, and the lead times are up to 7 days
New SR3D® Cubes!
Plug-in power or XLR type (XLR requires 24/48v phantom power)
Two cubes come with an adjustable stereo bar and adapters and are removable from the bar, they have a 1/4" tripod adapter under the cube, so each can be mounted on another microphone stand if you wish to try them further apart.
Solid steel metal bar with slide adjustable mounts
Each holder mount has removable 3/8" to 1/4" thread adapter
Two ball head mounts for adjusting for any angle
Distance between microphone mounts: 65mm to 230mm
Length of bar: 265mm
Stand mount fitting with 5/8" to 1/4" thread
3.5mm jack plug-in power option comes with:
Two audio cables
Stereo splitter cable for recorder or camera input
Both types use the Primo EM272 ultra low noise capsules for ultra low noise professional quality recordings.
Other:
If you have an idea for a microphone, or a modification, why not get in touch, maybe we can work with you and build you a bespoke microphone ideal for your requirements.
Binaural dummy head DIY kit
Complete DIY binaural dummy head kit!
Build your own 3D Binaural Microphone - Can lead to Professional Sound!
Kit comes with:
Polystyrene dummy head
Pair of SR3D silicone ears
Matched pair of Primo EM272's with wires pre-soldered
Durable 3D printed base
Fixing nut, washer and 1/4" tripod adapter
Pair of XLR connectors with pre soldered components
Screws and nuts for connectors/battery box
Felt for base
Ear cutting template tool
Silicone sealant in white
Silicone spreader tool
Tools you will need
Non serrated edge blade at least 4" to 6" in length
Box cutter/Stanley knife
14mm spanner and or pliers
Philips screwdriver
Soldering iron and solder
(unless you have no solder option where it's snap connectors instead!)
Cutting mat/newspaper for cutting felt base
Hot Wire Polystyrene Cutter Pen/Metal coat hanger that you can heat up (for wires)
(Hot wire cutter should be 20cm long and are anywhere between £10-£15 on eBay)
Please see shortened video for non-verbal instructions, if you decide to make a purchase the full video will be sent to you. The steps are very easy.
SR3D Binaural Jecklin disk
These are built to order, and the lead times are up to 7 days
SR3D Binaural Jecklin disk
A unique chance to own an SR3D Binaural Jecklin disk, perfect for live performances and events for capturing the performers and audiences at venues etc in 3D binaural audio.
Maybe used for field recording in calm weather, the optional SR3D fluffies could be used with these if in windy, gusty areas.
30cm disk with foam either side for a lightweight disk.
Each foam is 25.5mm thick, with a 6mm MDF circle - The disk is approx 57mm in thickness. Weighs less than 1kg.
The SR3D cubes can be adjusted left to right and extended a little.
This disk is the XLR model that uses the Primo EM272 capsules.
Mount is 5/8 and 3/8 adapter
3/8 to 1/4 adapter also supplied.
X2 Panasonic microphone capsules WM-61A
Original Panasonic WM-61A microphone capsules sold in pairs (not matched)
Specifications
Model: WM-61A
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Diameter: 6.0mm
Height: 3.4mm
Impedance: Less than 2.2KΩ
Directivity: Omni-directional
Frequency: 20-20,000Hz
Max. Operation Voltage: 10V
Standard Operation Voltage: 2V
Current consumption: Max.0.5mA
Sensitivity reduction: within-3dB at 1.5V
S/N ratio: More than 62dB
Sensitivity: -35±3dB (0dB/pA,1KHz)
Please use coupon "FreeShip" at the checkout for free delivery on this item.
Capsule and ear replacment repair
Have you got liquid or oils onto the capsules and need them repairing? Broken ears?
For a fixed fee of £89.99 which includes return of your microphone*, we will replace and repair your microphone to "as new", unless you have scratched your microphone, we will simply repair the ears to as new condition.
Please email info@sr3d.co.uk after you make a purchase so that we can expect your microphone.
If any custom fees are imposed on the incoming shipment, these will have to be added to your order before we can send the microphone back to you.
Please use coupon "repairs" for free shipping back to you if you don't have any other fees imposed due to customs receiving your microphone to us.
- £89.99 Excluding customs fees if imposed on incoming shipment
SR3D Classic WM-61A (Original Panasonic)
Limited edition!
This 3D binaural microphone is the perfect choice for any audio enthusiast. Its sleek white square tube design and white silicone ears make it a stylish addition to any setup, while its advanced technology ensures crystal clear sound quality. With this microphone, you can capture every nuance of your recordings with ease. Whether you're recording music, ASMR or podcasts, this mic will give you professional-level results every time.
The updated SR3D® classic microphone uses plug-in power from many popular recorders and cameras.
An ideal first true binaural capturing device for an ASMR artist or field recordist that has a professional sound!
Uses a standard 1/4" tripod socket.
Panasonic WM61A capsules - unmatched
Tube 65mm X 65mm X 150mm (190mm including ears)
Weighs @ 450g
Comes with 1M audio cable.
Specifications
Model: SR3D-Classic-WM61A
Impedance: Less than 2.2KΩ
Frequency: 20-20,000Hz
Max. Operation Voltage: 10V
Standard Operation Voltage: 2V
Current consumption: Max.0.5mA
Sensitivity reduction: within-3dB at 1.5V
S/N ratio: More than 62dB
Sensitivity: -35±3dB (0dB/pA,1KHz)
The microphone is very simple to use, and to set up.
Works with Tascam DR-05, Zoom H6, Zoom H1n, Sound Devices MixPre 3 and MixPre 6 II and many cameras/computers with stereo mic inputs, etc.
Want to connect to your computer, or your phone? You can connect directly to your computer if it has a stereo microphone input, or use one of our USB devices we suggest the Axagon USB adapter, please see our USB devices page.
You can use your phone to record video and audio from the microphone with the USB adapters on our USB adapters page.
Please note:
International buyers are responsible for any tax, duties and customs fees.
Avoid Using Standard Recording Techniques For Binaural Recording
We strongly recommend avoiding adjusting the preamp on your recording device to boost the sound levels of what your recording.
It will add extra noise that could potentially ruin your recordings as well as having a negative impact on the binaural effect that you are looking to achieve. A preamp (short for preamplifier) is an electronic circuit that amplifies weak signals from a microphone, instrument or another audio source, to a level that can be processed by a recording device. In the context of recording, a preamp is typically found on a recording device such as a mixer, audio interface, or standalone preamp unit. The primary purpose of a preamp is to provide gain or amplification to the audio signal before it is processed by other components in the recording chain. Do not adjust the preamp on your recording device to boost sound levels, it will destroy the binaural effect and add extra noise that could spoil your recordings. Make sure that meter levels only bob up and down now and then when in a quiet room, if the meters show above the minimum all the time it's too high, turn it down to the minimum deflection so that it occasionally bobs. |
Binaural Recording For Specific
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Choose The Right Location For Your Binaural Recording
Obviously, if you are aiming to capture the sounds of an outdoor environment, these factors don’t need to be taken into consideration. Our SR3D binaural microphones are perfect for recording binaural audio in all locations. Coming in multiple different design forms, they are compact, easily transportable, have different input options and most importantly are perfectly designed for capturing binaural audio. Remember to listen out for sounds above you, below you, and behind you approaching you for the very best binaural experience, let the sound come into the microphones naturally, rather than pointing the mics at it, and following the sound as it moves.
Depending on the location you are filming, you may need a windscreen or wind jammer to block any excess or unwanted wind noises finding their way into your recording, our fluffies work very well for wind protection.
Here are examples of recording at two drastically different locations using our SR3D binaural microphone.
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Choosing The Right Microphone For Binaural Recording
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Microphone Positioning For Binaural RecordingUsing microphones placed in the ears or near to the ears of a dummy head is the key to recording binaural audio. This is because the human ear is designed to capture sound in a specific way, with each ear receiving sound from slightly different directions and distances.
The brain uses these differences to locate the source of the sound in three-dimensional space. By using microphones placed in the ears, near to the ears or microphones that replicate the shape of ears, binaural audio recording replicates this process, capturing sound from two different perspectives just as the human ears would. This creates a stereo recording that is much more immersive and realistic than traditional mono recordings. When played back through headphones, the binaural audio creates an audio experience that is similar to being in the same environment as the recording, with sounds appearing to come from different directions and distances, as if the listener were actually there. |